As someone who grew up with the original Doc Martin and has watched every single episode multiple times, I have to admit I was sceptical at how good this adaptation would be especially as recent adaptations of other shows have been very sporadic. I am absolutely delighted that they proved me wrong.
I didn’t even get ten minutes into the show before I was hooked, the casting for every single character is spot on. Obviously the most important role to be filled was of course Doc Martin, and after watching the first episode I can’t think of a better person to play this version of Doc Martin than Josh Charles. He has embodied the perfect vision of who Doc Martin is. He has bought the awkwardness and the weird charm that Martin Clunes showcased for so many years.
The second most important role is the Louisa character, and let me say Abigail Spencer literally nails the role two seconds into being on screen. The chemistry between the two characters is absolutely there. I love that even though some of the main basics of the story are the same, the pair have put their own twist on the characters.
I also think the entire crew has done an incredible job of bringing modernness to the show without making it seem cheap and overdone. The original Doc Martin started back in 2002, so even though Dr Best is having the same issues with his exasperating receptionist it has a modern twist with live’s and social media challenges. It is so great that it has its own level of individualism, it allows the viewers to watch a different kind of show to others.
The humour translates so well through the screen, Doc Martin has such a dry humour, but it works with every single casting. The level of quality this cast has is outstanding, even the smallest moments are such a joy to watch.
It was such a great first episode, it allowed us to get to know exactly who Doc Martin is and where he fits in at Portwenn. Not only does it allow us to get to know who the new Doc is, but it also allows us to get to know the most important people in the show too. The joy of it being set in a small town means that almost everyone gets some form of development in each episode.
I loved the portrayal of Martin’s aversion to blood, Josh Charles did a fantastic job of making it seem so real and the shaking of the scene as he faints or catches sight of blood gives a perfect set up for future episodes. We also got a small mention of a person named Rosemary, it immediately ropes you further into Martin’s story and what makes him the way he is.
To me this was essentially a perfect first episode, it had absolutely everything that is needed to hook you into watching further. Every single character intertwines with each other, allowing for a seamless transition into the next scene. Martin is such an interesting character, and you can’t help but want to watch more of him, but also of everyone else’s story. I truly think this will be an absolute hit with the audience, you get so much joy from watching the episode.
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